10 Best Heat Pump For Above Ground Pools 2025 in the United States

The Aquastrong 35,000 BTU Inverter Heat Pump is a solid choice for above-ground pool owners looking to extend their swimming season. It offers a good heating capacity of 35,000 BTU, capable of warming pools up to 9,000 gallons, which fits well with many average-sized pools. Its inverter technology is a standout feature, providing a high energy efficiency with a COP of 15.8, meaning it uses electricity smartly to save on running costs compared to traditional electric or gas heaters. This pump is also climate friendly, with automatic defrost cycles that keep it running smoothly through colder months. Noise is kept low at about 48 decibels, so it won’t disturb your outdoor relaxation.

Installation is user-friendly thanks to multiple hose and pipe adapters, making it compatible with common pool setups. The heat pump also includes WiFi control, so you can easily adjust settings remotely via an app, which adds convenience. One thing to note is its weight (around 117 pounds), so positioning it might require some effort. While it comes with a 3-year warranty, some users might prefer a longer coverage given the investment.

The Aquastrong pump delivers a balance of efficient performance, user-friendly features, and durability, making it a practical option for pool owners in cooler climates or those wanting better temperature control without noisy or costly operation.

The DR. INFRARED HEATER DR-900HP is a powerful heat pump designed to warm both in-ground and above-ground pools up to 28,000 gallons, making it suitable for medium to large pools. Its 90,000 BTU heating capacity is strong, ensuring your pool can reach comfortable temperatures relatively quickly. The Full DC Inverter technology allows the unit to adjust heating output from 20% to 100%, which improves energy efficiency and contributes to a high Coefficient of Performance (COP), meaning it uses electricity smartly to produce more heat. This can help reduce your electricity bills compared to traditional pool heaters.

One standout feature is the built-in WiFi and app control, offering convenient remote scheduling and temperature adjustments from anywhere. This smart control, combined with the soft-start function, helps prolong the unit’s lifespan by preventing stress on the compressor during startup. The twin rotary compressor design also reduces vibration and noise, so it operates more quietly than many other models.

Durability is well-addressed with CSA and AHRI certifications indicating the unit meets industry standards for quality and performance. While the product comes with good customer support based in the USA, the heat pump is made in China, which may be a consideration for some buyers. It weighs 187 pounds and measures about 43 x 16.5 x 37.7 inches, so installation might require some effort or professional assistance. The power requirement (208-230V) might not be compatible with all home electrical setups, and while it is designed for above-ground and in-ground pools, its large size and weight could make it less ideal for smaller pools or limited spaces. Noise is reduced due to design improvements but could still be noticeable depending on placement. This heat pump is well suited for pool owners seeking a high-capacity, energy-efficient, and smart-controlled solution for medium to large pools in various climates. It balances strong heating performance with durability and user-friendly features, though installation and electrical needs should be carefully considered.

The Dr Infrared Heater DR-1100HP heat pump is a versatile option suitable for both in-ground and above-ground pools, accommodating pool sizes up to 32,000 gallons. With a heating capacity of 110,000 BTU, it offers substantial power, making it effective even for larger pools. Its Full DC Inverter technology ensures efficient operation by adjusting the heating capacity between 20% to 100%, which contributes to energy savings.

The twin rotary compressor design reduces vibration and noise, providing a quieter experience, which is a significant advantage for residential settings. The compatibility with WiFi allows for convenient control and scheduling via a mobile app, adding a level of ease and modern functionality to its operation. Durability is emphasized with CSA and AHRI certifications, and the unit includes a soft-start function to enhance longevity.

It also comes with robust US-based customer support which can be very reassuring for buyers. However, the unit's weight (276 pounds) and size may pose challenges during installation and require substantial space for setup. This heat pump is well-suited for pool owners seeking a powerful, durable, and technologically advanced heating solution for larger pools, but they should be prepared for some potential installation challenges due to its size and weight.